What does Paul mean in 1 Corinthians 11 concerning “shorn” and hair length?
First off, let me address the context of the passage of 1 Corinthians 11. In Paul’s letters, we see that he is addressing some questions or spiritual needs of a group of Christians. Something has been brought to his attention from these Christians and he’s chosen–or has been made–to address them in a letter instead of in person. Paul, in the first part of this chapter, describes the hierarchical relationships that exist among all souls. This leads to a discussion of a head covering–in this case, hair–and its use in authority. Also, let me say that this passage has caused a lot of questions. Many have said that it only applies to the Corinthian man and woman at that time. Women were expected to keep their heads covered then. These same will say that, because Paul was writing to these people, women do not necessarily have to have their heads covered today. Others will say that Paul is using universal statements to describe why a woman should cover her head. By “universal” I mean that it
